Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini: A Flavor-Packed Lunch in Minutes

When you’re craving a delicious, satisfying sandwich that’s quick to make, this Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini is the perfect choice. With layers of savory turkey, melted fontina cheese, fresh Roma tomatoes, and a generous spread of basil pesto, all pressed between slices of sourdough bread, this panini is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or even a picnic treat, this panini will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

This panini combines the rich, earthy flavors of basil pesto with the creamy melt of fontina cheese and the savory goodness of turkey. The tangy sourdough bread adds a delightful contrast, making each bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy days when you want something tasty and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 pieces sourdough bread
• 1 cup pesto
• ½ pound fontina cheese, sliced
• 1 ½ pounds turkey, sliced
• 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
• Olive oil, for brushing

Directions

1. Prepare the bread: Lay the sourdough bread slices on a flat surface. Spread a generous amount of pesto on each slice of bread, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor.
2. Layer the ingredients: Divide the sliced fontina cheese evenly among the 8 slices, placing it directly on top of the pesto. Set aside 4 slices that will be used as the tops for the sandwiches.
3. Add the turkey and tomatoes: Evenly distribute the sliced turkey on top of the cheese on the remaining 4 slices of bread. Add a few slices of Roma tomatoes on top of the turkey.
4. Assemble the sandwiches: Place the reserved slices of bread on top of each sandwich, pesto-side down. Lightly press down on the sandwiches to secure them. Brush both sides of each sandwich with olive oil to ensure a crispy, golden exterior.
5. Grill or toast: Heat a grill pan, skillet, or panini press over medium-high heat. Place the sandwiches on the heated surface and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes per side if using a skillet or grill pan. If using a panini press, simply cook until golden and melted.
6. Serve: Once the sandwiches are toasted and the cheese is perfectly melted, remove them from the heat. Slice each sandwich in half and serve warm.

Recipe Notes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Tips for the Best Turkey Basil Pesto Panini

• Choosing the bread: Sourdough is recommended for its tangy flavor and sturdy texture, but you can substitute with other types of bread like ciabatta or focaccia.
• Customizing the ingredients: Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like provolone or mozzarella, or add in extras like spinach or roasted red peppers for additional flavor and texture.
• Perfect grilling: If you don’t have a panini press, use a heavy skillet to press down on the sandwiches while grilling them in a regular pan to achieve that perfect, crispy finish.

This Easy Turkey Basil Pesto Panini is a versatile and flavorful option that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re making a quick meal for yourself or serving guests, this panini is sure to impress with its delicious layers and satisfying taste. Enjoy it with a side of salad, chips, or even a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal!

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